Trains suspended over bridge fears

ALL trains have been suspended in central west Queensland amid fears wooden bridges have not been properly checked and could pose a safety risk.

The state government says its rail safety regulator has ordered all trains suspend operations in central west Queensland, following Wednesday's closure of a line north of Emerald because of the condition of two rail bridges.

A statement issued today says the broader closure involves lines operated by Queensland Rail, including Emerald to Winton via Longreach, the Clermont branch line and the Springsure branch line.

Transport Minister Scott Emerson said closures would remain in force until the safety concerns were resolved.

"There are more than 70 wooden bridges in the region that need to be reinspected because of concerns that underwater inspections were signed off up to 18 months ago without actually being carried out," he said in a statement.